Sputtering when coming to a stop

Welcome to 2CarPros.

It has a lot of miles on it. Tell me, when it isn't acting up, does it seem to have normal power? Has the check engine light stayed on while driving? Also, could you tell if the smell was coming from the front or rear of the vehicle?

So many things can cause this type of issue. If there is a power loss, stalling or other driveability issues as you mentioned, the first thing that comes to mind is the catalytic converter may be plugged. Do you think they check for something like that?

Take a look through these links:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/bad-catalytic-converter-symptoms

Here is a link that explains how to test one:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-catalytic-converter

Let me know if the symptoms link seems to mirror what you experience.

Take care,
Joe

The check engine light was on for a day. When I took the van to the shop, they stated it was just the gas cap.
The smell came from the front of the van. I could smell it inside the van but not under the hood?
It happens anytime I'm driving now. It's much more consistent now.

Welcome back:

Any fuel leak can be dangerous. We need to check under the hood to see if there is a leak at one of the fuel injectors or fuel lines. I attached a pic below showing three of the injectors locations. There are three more on the opposite side of the engine. You may need a mirror to see them. Check those for leaks as well as the fuel supply lines to them.

Let me know what you find.

Joe